A nurse is administering the Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine (Hib) to a 6-month-old infant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Latex gloves: Latex gloves should be avoided, especially in newborns, due to the risk of allergic reactions. Non-latex gloves are the preferred option for any care involving newborns.
B. Soft restraints: Soft restraints are not necessary for the care of a newborn with a myelomeningocele unless there is a specific concern for the infant’s safety. Restraints should not be routinely used unless deemed absolutely necessary.
C. Sterile saline: Sterile saline is essential for cleaning and maintaining the integrity of the myelomeningocele sac. The sac should be kept moist with sterile saline to prevent it from drying out or becoming infected. This is a critical to have at the bedside for proper care.
D. Rectal thermometer: A rectal thermometer should be avoided in infants with a myelomeningocele, especially if the sac involves the lower spinal cord, as it can potentially cause injury to the delicate tissue or result in a risk of infection.

Rationale for Correct Choices:

• Consult the child life specialist for guidance: A child life specialist can help the parent navigate the difficult conversation with their adolescent, providing strategies for addressing sensitive topics like metastasis and death.
• Reinforce teaching to the parent regarding the adolescent's potential emotional responses: Educating the parent on common emotional responses helps them prepare for and better support their adolescent through this challenging time.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

• Encourage the parent to hide their emotions from their adolescent: Hiding emotions can create barriers to trust and communication, which can make the adolescent feel isolated or confused.
• Instruct the parent to withhold the test results from their adolescent: Withholding important information can prevent the adolescent from understanding their condition and making informed decisions about their care.
• Discourage the parent from discussing the possibility of death with their adolescent: Avoiding discussions about death can prevent the adolescent from processing their emotions and understanding the reality of their situation.
• Collaborate with the RN to initiate a referral for admission to hospice care: Hospice care should only be considered after emotional support and clear communication have been established, not prematurely without addressing emotional needs first.